The role of microbial genomics in delivering the UK’s national action plan for confronting antimicrobial resistance 2024–29

The article describes antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as a complex global health threat driven by interconnected human, animal, and environmental factors. Resistance emerges when microorganisms evolve mechanisms—such as genetic mutations or acquisition of resistance genes—to survive exposure to antimicrobial drugs. The problem is accelerated by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics in healthcare, agriculture, and food production, as well as environmental contamination from wastewater and pharmaceutical residues. These pressures allow resistant bacteria to spread between humans, animals, and ecosystems, making infections harder to treat and increasing healthcare costs, mortality, and economic burden. Addressing AMR therefore requires coordinated action through surveillance, responsible antimicrobial use, improved infection prevention, and a One Health approach that integrates human, animal, and environmental health strategies.